The Starting Line: Master the Basics

Every sport requires players to learn fundamental skills for excellence. At times, the basics can be unexciting and difficult to learn. But in any sport, mastering these basics is always the key to success.

Much like fundamental skills in sports, a core set of basics will guide you in living a life focused on Christ.

There are three areas of basic training essential to a successful endurance run with God.

Basic 1: STAY IN CONSTANT COMMUNICATION WITH YOUR LIFE COACH—PRAY

Success in sports is difficult without a mentor, coach, or trainer to guide us. The same is true in our lives. We need to meet personally with God through direct communication—prayer.

Prayer is a powerful tool that can change your life and the lives of those around you. Prayer is about sharing your heart with God and allowing Him to speak into your life. Learn to be completely open with God and listen for His voice.

Basic 2: STUDY GOD’S TRAINING MANUAL—THE BIBLE

Each sport has a training manual to develop excellence. For the Christ-follower, the Bible is like a playbook and training manual. Its inspired words come from the heart and mind of God. It contains piercing truth about who God is, who we really are, and our mission and destiny. 

Its message is simple, yet deeply powerful. The Bible is living and active; God reveals new insights each time you open it.

Basic 3: LOCK ARMS WITH A WINNING TEAM—FIND A CHURCH

As competitors, we depend on the support of others to reach our specific goals. A church is a supportive team focused on serving God together. From the beginning, God has always put people together with different talents, abilities, and experiences to accomplish His plan. Find a church that you can learn from and serve with in order to grow in your faith. 

To master the basics, keep a daily routine of prayer and Bible reading just like you would follow a basic training schedule. Let’s Go!